At the height of imperialism, powerful European nations colonised vast parts of Africa, Asia and the Americas, bringing countries such as Nigeria, India, Algeria, Vietnam and Indonesia under foreign rule.
Through a combination of military resistance, strategic diplomacy, geographical advantages and rapid modernisation, some countries managed to preserve their sovereignty and chart their own paths. Here are six countries that were never formally colonised.
1. Ethiopia
Ethiopia stands out as one of the few African nations that successfully resisted European colonial ambitions. In 1896, Emperor Menelik II led Ethiopian forces to a historic victory over Italy at the Battle of Adwa, dealing a major blow to European imperialism in Africa.
Although Italy briefly occupied Ethiopia between 1936 and 1941 during the Second World War, the country was never fully colonised and regained its independence after the occupation ended. Ethiopia’s resilience made it a symbol of African resistance and pride.
2. Liberia
Liberia occupies a unique place in African history. Established by formerly enslaved African Americans under the auspices of the American Colonization Society, the country declared independence in 1847.
During the Scramble for Africa, Liberia’s close diplomatic ties with the United States and recognition by major powers helped it avoid European colonisation. Despite facing external pressures and territorial disputes, the West African nation maintained its sovereignty throughout the colonial era.
3. Japan
Unlike many Asian countries that fell under Western domination, Japan transformed itself into a modern power during the Meiji Restoration in the late 19th century. The country embraced industrialisation, strengthened its military and introduced sweeping political reforms.
These changes enabled Japan to resist colonial pressures and eventually emerge as a major world power. Instead of becoming a colony, Japan became an imperial force in its own right, expanding its influence across East Asia.
4. Thailand
Thailand, formerly known as Siam, is the only Southeast Asian country that was never colonised by a European power. Its rulers skilfully navigated relations with Britain and France, the dominant colonial powers in the region.
By implementing modern reforms and serving as a buffer state between British-controlled Burma and French Indochina, Siam preserved its independence. Strategic diplomacy and adaptability allowed the country to maintain its sovereignty while many of its neighbours fell under foreign rule.
5. Nepal
Nestled in the Himalayas, Nepal managed to maintain its independence despite British expansion in South Asia. Following the Anglo-Nepalese War of 1814–1816, Nepal ceded some territory to the British East India Company under the Treaty of Sugauli.
However, the country retained self-rule and continued to be governed by its monarchy. Its rugged terrain and military reputation also contributed to its ability to remain independent.
6. Bhutan
Bhutan’s mountainous geography and cautious foreign policy helped shield it from colonisation. Located in the eastern Himalayas, the kingdom pursued a strategy of limited engagement with outside powers.
Although Bhutan signed treaties with British India that influenced its foreign relations, it retained control over domestic affairs and was never formally colonised. The country has since preserved its distinct cultural identity and remains one of the world’s few constitutional monarchies.
